House of contention by Ahikam Seri (25 images)

In the Israeli-Palestinian conflict, a single house can become an important symbol. In December 2008, a building in Hebron became the focal point for the most bitter clash between settlers and the Israeli government for more than two years.

The Israeli high court had rejected the settlers' claim that they had legally bought the house from its Palestinian owner. As the house became a symbol of defiance, the few families living there were joined by a mob of some 1,500 radical...more »

In the Israeli-Palestinian conflict, a single house can become an important symbol. In December 2008, a building in Hebron became the focal point for the most bitter clash between settlers and the Israeli government for more than two years.

The Israeli high court had rejected the settlers' claim that they had legally bought the house from its Palestinian owner. As the house became a symbol of defiance, the few families living there were joined by a mob of some 1,500 radical right-wing youths. When the army moved in to evict the settlers, the youths went on a rampage and attacked Palestinians in the mixed West Bank city.

By sundown the army operation had been declared a success. The house lies empty. The show moves on.« less